“We are converting all of our 35 millimeter over to a digital format,” said Tim Shively, general manager of the Wheelersburg Cinema. “The digital format is now the standard of the industry, so we’re making the leap.”

Shivley said the process of changing out equipment at the Wheelersburg Cinema began on Monday and was finished on Tuesday. When asked what some of the differences are between a movie shown on 35 millimeter vs. a movie shown through a digital format, Shively said, “with digital there is a sharper picture and better sound.”

He said the cinema is also taking the opportunity to upgrade sound equipment in each of the theaters.

“We’re upgrading from the old amps and sound processors to digital (sound) processors and upgraded amps,” Shively said.

There are new speakers going in theater four, before it has surround sound and an old Hi Fi unit.

“That theater (four) is being upgraded to 5.1 dolby digital sound. We’re also planning on integrating 3D movies into theater four as well,” Shivley said. “We have to install a silver screen in that theater. We have the silver screen, we just need to do a little bit of re-configuring on the framing.”

When asked at what price tag the upgrades came at Shivley said, “over five years to do the four houses (theaters). The upgrades are going to end up costing around $300,000.”

Shively said the average moviegoer will have a better movie watching experience because of the upgrades the theater has made. He said he hopes to have 3D films available by Valentines Day.

“With the 3D it will not be available right away, but when we do get it people will notice a better picture quality because of the more advanced digital equipment,” Shivley said.

Some of the may services offered by the Wheelersburg Cinema include offering the lowest price around on concessions.

“We have a price match guarantee on our concession prices. If you find a lower price anywhere in the tri-state, not on a sale, but on an everyday low price. I’ll match the price and give them 10 percent,” Shivley said.

The Wheelersburg Cinema is located at 8805 Gallia St., in Wheelersburg. For daily movie show times call 740-574-8620, or visit them on Facebook or visit www.wheelersburgcinemas.com, where you can order and purchase tickets.

Wayne Allen may be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 228, or tallen@civitasmedia.com. For breaking news, follow Wayne on Twitter @WayneallenPDT.